New Bengal Jonathan Allen Brings Impressive Resume

The veteran defensive tackle joins Cincinnati after nearly a decade in the NFL.

Mar. 19, 2026 at 9:30pm

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The Cincinnati Bengals have signed free agent defensive tackle Jonathan Allen, who brings nearly a decade of NFL experience to their defensive line. Allen, a former first-round draft pick, has been a consistent producer since entering the league in 2017, making two Pro Bowls and recording 45.5 career sacks. Prior to the NFL, Allen was a standout at the University of Alabama, winning numerous awards and helping the Crimson Tide capture a national championship.

Why it matters

The addition of Allen bolsters the Bengals' defensive line as they look to build on their recent success and compete for another AFC North title. Allen's proven track record of disrupting opposing offenses should provide a boost to Cincinnati's defense.

The details

Since being drafted 17th overall by Washington in 2017, Allen has established himself as one of the top defensive tackles in the NFL. He has recorded at least 6 sacks in each of the last 4 seasons, including a career-high 9 sacks in 2021 which earned him his first Pro Bowl selection. Prior to the NFL, Allen was a dominant force at Alabama, winning the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, Chuck Bednarik Award, and Lombardi Award during his senior season in 2016.

  • Allen was drafted by Washington in the 1st round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
  • He made his first Pro Bowl in 2021 after a 9-sack season with Washington.
  • Allen signed with the Cincinnati Bengals as a free agent in 2026.

The players

Jonathan Allen

A veteran defensive tackle who has spent the first 9 seasons of his NFL career with Washington before signing with the Cincinnati Bengals as a free agent in 2026.

Washington

The NFL team that drafted Allen in the 1st round in 2017 and he played for during the first 9 years of his career.

University of Alabama

The college program where Allen played prior to being drafted, winning numerous awards and helping the Crimson Tide capture a national championship.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add a player of Jonathan's caliber to our defensive line. His combination of size, strength, and pass-rushing ability will be a great asset for us.”

— Zac Taylor, Head Coach, Cincinnati Bengals

What’s next

Allen is expected to immediately step into a starting role on the Bengals' defensive line and provide a boost to their pass rush. His leadership and experience should also help mentor the team's younger defensive linemen.

The takeaway

The Bengals have made a savvy signing in bringing in Jonathan Allen, a proven veteran who has consistently produced at a high level throughout his NFL career. His addition should help solidify Cincinnati's defensive front as they look to build on their recent success and compete for another division title.